RESOURCES FOR PREPARING FOR THE EAS MASTER BEEKEEPER EXAMS

Listed below are major references that will be used by the Master Beekeeper Advisor in preparing the written exam. We feel the library of ‘Master Beekeepers’ or resources they should have ready access to should have several of these references—the first 4 Basic Resource Books listed will be primarily utilized to develop exam questions. This list, however, should not be considered complete. There are many other excellent written resources available to beekeepers.

Individuals preparing to take the exams are not expected to read all of the books listed here however, those wishing to taking the exam will find it helpful to have a working knowledge of the subject material represented by these texts. Several questions will be contemporary issues, those aspects being written about in current bee journal articles and discussed at bee meetings. A Master Beekeeper should be up-to-date and knowledgeable about current trends and newer scientific findings/management practices of beekeepers.

Sources for various items are given. Many of the books are available at Amazon, but can also be obtained from bee equipment suppliers and from the publishers.

Anatomy and Dissection of the Honeybee. 2009. H. A. Dade. International Bee Research Association (IBRA). Available from IBRA, www.ibra.org.uk. A book in two parts: one-half anatomy and one-half detailed dissection instructions.

A Field Guide to Honey Bees and Their Maladies. AGRS-116. 2011. Maryann Frazier, D. M. Caron, D. vanEnglesdorp. Pennsylvania State University Extension Publication. Excellent field guide with many photographs.

Because of rapidly increasing research findings on diseases and pests of honey bees, the following books cannot be considered current. Little on viruses, CCD or PMS. Numerous scientific names are now incorrect.

Information on plants for honey bees and other pollinators can be obtained from state and local Cooperative Extension Service offices, state and local beekeeping associations and also on the Internet by searching plants and honey bees.

Insect Pollination of Cultivated Crop Plants. 1976. S. E. McGergor. Agriculture Handbook No.496, USDA. Reprinted by A. I. Root Company. Available as printed book and as free Online download: Insect Pollination of Cultivated Crop Plants: The First and Only Virtual Beekeeping Book Updated Continuously with additions listed by crop and date. Search Internet for title (Insect Pollination of Cultivated Crop Plants) and open the ars.usda.gov site.

Evaluating Honey Bee Colonies for Pollination: A Guide for Commercial Growers and Beekeepers. 2011. R. R. Sagilli, D. M. Burgett. Oregon State University PNW 623. Search Internet for title (Evaluating Honey Bee colonies for Pollination) and open up either the Oregon State or Washington State Universities site. Practical information on colony rental, contracts and how to evaluate colonies.